Whether you are struggling with a protruding belly or stubborn arm fat, there are times when diet and exercise alone do not seem sufficient. In times like these, it is normal to feel discouraged – no matter how many runs you go on or how many diets you try out, the results never seem to show!
Fortunately, these issues can be addressed by one of the oldest cosmetic procedures today – liposuction. Liposuction is a method for eliminating localized fat deposits in order to re-shape and re-contour the body. It is a technique that is commonly used to contour parts of the body like the arms, thighs, calves, waist, belly, and buttocks.
Contrary to popular belief, there is more than one type of liposuction. The three most popular and commonly performed forms of liposuction are traditional, VASER and MicroAire liposuction.
Now, you may be wondering – what are the differences between these three procedures? Well, fret not, as we discuss the key differences between traditional, VASER and MicroAire liposuction in this article to help you make a more informed decision on which you should go for.
Introduction to traditional liposuction
Most of the time, when people mention “liposuction”, they are referring to the traditional liposuction technique. This technique was first introduced in the 1970s and is sometimes referred to as “suction-assisted liposuction”. Since its introduction, there have been a variety of new liposuction advancements, with the traditional technique still serving as a basis for all these modern methods.
Introduction to VASER liposuction
“VASER” is short for “Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance”, which is essentially ultrasound technology. Despite what many may think, VASER is not an entirely new concept. In actuality, the use of ultrasonic energy in liposuction dates back to the 1990s. However, in the past, as a result of the surgeons’ inability to manage the energy level and the consequently high risks and problems, the technology had fallen out of favor. These days, the third generation of VASER technology now employs a low dose that is sufficient to destroy the majority or all of the targeted fat cells without posing the same hazards as earlier generations!
Introduction to MicroAire liposuction
MicroAire is a power-assisted liposuction technique that has a considerably shorter downtime and recovery period. MicroAire works by oscillating the liposuction cannula between 4000 and 6000 times per minute to soften the fat. This mechanically breaks apart the fat, just like manual liposuction. It is often utilized to get rid of fat and shape up trouble spots including the thighs, hips, and stomach.
How these three techniques differ
In traditional liposuction, small incisions are made to provide cannula access to the deep fat layer. This is essential because there is a higher risk of skin damage while operating on the surface layer. A vacuum device will then draw the fat cells out of the body and into a flask after the cannula rotates back and forth to separate them from the tissues. This is why patients need to wear a compression garment for a few weeks after the procedure. Throughout the healing phase, which can last three weeks, the patient will likely feel some discomfort and soreness.
Compared to traditional liposuction, VASER liposuction is less intrusive and significantly safer since it uses a probe that transmits ultrasound energy to break down fats into smaller droplets before being suctioned away. The probe’s vibration causes the fat cells to release and emulsify with the solution that was injected to reduce bruising. VASER does not use the cannula to break down the fat, whose movement in traditional liposuction can cause stress to the tissues.
As for MicroAire liposuction, this procedure involves a suction cannula with a tiny motor. Small incisions are made to implant the cannula into the treatment sites. By breaking up the fat deposits and moving the cannula back and forth (in a reciprocating motion), this motor helps the surgeon accomplish liposuction a little bit more easily.
Which is for you?
Those who have a substantial amount of fat they wish to reduce are better suited to opt for the traditional approach because this is best for people with a higher BMI. However, this technique can necessitate a longer downtime as it requires a surgeon to make a significant physical effort to break up and remove the fat from the treatment region, which may result in some damage to the surrounding tissues.
VASER liposuction is less invasive than traditional liposuction, hence, the recovery period is considerably shorter. In fact, most patients may resume their sedentary work activities after a week. This method also causes reduced bleeding, discomfort, and bruises.
Similarly, MicroAire liposuction also offers significantly lesser downtime as compared to traditional liposuction. The cannula receives a slight vibration from the MicroAire power assisted liposuction (PAL) technology. The vibration is so little that it cannot be seen with the naked eye. This reduces the amount of force the surgeon needs to apply to remove the resistant fat. As a result, patients recover from the procedure more quickly and experience less swelling and bruises.
Overall, because there is no heat involved, power assisted liposuction with the MicroAire is safer than many other methods, including traditional or VASER liposuction!
Achieve your dream body with The Clifford Surgery Clinic
To summarize, if you are concerned about downtime, it would be better to opt for VASER or MicroAire liposuction. With these two techniques, injury risks are reduced, and you can return to your daily routine more quickly. Between these two procedures, MicroAire is definitely much safer. But if you are looking to have a larger amount of fat removed, traditional liposuction might be better.
Whether you choose a traditional, VASER or MicroAire liposuction, the outcome will largely depend on the surgeon you choose. The Clifford Surgery Clinic is a professional plastic surgery clinic in Novena that specializes in a range of cosmetic procedures, including liposuction, abdominoplasty surgery in Singapore and more. Here at The Clifford Surgery Clinic, we utilize MicroAire to effectively eliminate fat from the targeted regions, enhancing the definition of the muscles, and producing a more natural-looking appearance.
We have performed various cosmetic surgery procedures for more than 18 years. Our clinic is at the forefront of assuring the best practices in Singapore through the use of cutting-edge technology and research along with strict guidelines for clinical safety, education, and care. At The Clifford Surgery Clinic, your safety is our top priority, and we go above and beyond to make sure of it!
If you are ready to achieve your dream body with liposuction, do not hesitate to book an appointment with us today!